Using virtual cards for online payments and transactions has become increasingly popular in recent years. Revolut is one of the most well-known providers of virtual cards. With a Revolut virtual card, you can make online purchases securely without having to use your physical card details.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using a Revolut card. We’ll explain what a Revolut card is, and the benefits it provides, and give you step-by-step instructions for setting it up and using it for online payments.
You’ll also learn how to integrate your Revolut virtual card with Google and Apple Pay.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the information you need to start taking advantage of the convenience and security of a Revolut card.
Whether you’re making online purchases, using contactless payments, or shopping while abroad, a Revolut card can make the process smooth and simple.
What is a Revolut virtual card?
A Revolut virtual card is a digital card issued by Revolut that exists only in the app. It has a unique card number, expiry date, and CVV just like a physical card.
The key difference is that it does not have a physical form and can only be used for online, in-app, or contactless transactions. You cannot withdraw cash from an ATM with a Revolut virtual card since there is no physical card to insert.
Virtual cards provide several benefits:
- Enhanced security – The risk of fraud is lower as virtual cards cannot be lost or stolen. They can also be easily frozen or revoked if required.
- Convenience – No need to carry around a physical card. Virtual cards can be generated instantly in the app.
- Control over spending – Separate virtual cards can be created for different types of transactions or merchants. Spending limits and expiry dates can also be set for each virtual card.
- Disposable cards – These single-use virtual cards provide an extra layer of security for one-off online purchases. Details cannot be reused after the transaction.
Revolut offers two main types of virtual cards – regular Revolut virtual cards that can be reused and disposable virtual cards that are for one-time use.
Using this card is easy. Simply enter the card details when making an online purchase, just as you would with a physical card. The payment will be deducted from your Revolut account balance.
Setting up your Revolut virtual card
Setting up a Revolut card is quick and easy. Just follow these steps:
1. Open the Revolut app on your phone.
2. Tap on Cards at the bottom.
3. Tap on the + icon in the top right corner.
4. Select Virtual from the menu.
5. Choose whether you want a standard Revolut card or a disposable virtual card for one-time use.
6. Tap Get virtual card.
7. Your new virtual card will now be generated. The card details, including the 16-digit card number, expiration date, and CVV, will be displayed.
8. If you want to use your virtual card with Apple Pay or Google Pay, tap on your new virtual card. Then scroll down and tap Add to Apple Pay or Add to Google Pay and follow the instructions.
And that’s it! Your Revolut virtual card is now ready to use for online purchases or via Apple or Google. You can easily freeze or unfreeze it anytime from the Revolut app.
📚Related: The Apple Pay Contactless Limit Explained
How to use your Revolut virtual card
Once you have successfully set up your Revolut card in the app, you are ready to start using it for your online purchases and transactions. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use your Revolut virtual card:
1. Log in to your Revolut app and go to the Cards section.
2. Tap on your virtual card to view the card details — the 16-digit card number, expiration date, and CVV code.
3. When checking out on an online store, select Credit/Debit Card as the payment method.
4. Enter your Revolut card number, expiration date, and CVV code in the required fields. Make sure to double-check that you have entered the details correctly.
5. Enter the billing address associated with your Revolut account.
6. Review the order details and click Pay Now to complete the purchase with your virtual card.
7. You will receive a notification on your app confirming the transaction.
The process is quick and hassle-free. The merchant will process the Revolut virtual card just like a physical credit or debit card for online payments. You can instantly use the funds in your Revolut account to pay for your online purchases with the added security benefits of a virtual card.
If you run into any problems using your virtual card online, you can easily get in touch with Revolut’s customer support for assistance.
Using Revolut card with Google Pay and Apple Pay
You can add your Revolut virtual card to Google or Apple Pay to use it for contactless payments in stores. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Adding your Revolut card to Apple Pay
- Open the Revolut app and go to the Cards tab.
- Tap on your virtual card.
- Tap Add to Apple Pay.
- Follow the prompts to add your virtual card to the Wallet app.
- Accept the Terms of Service.
- Authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode.
After adding your Revolut virtual card, you can make payments by holding your iPhone near a contactless reader at stores. Confirm payments using Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode.
That’s it! With just a few simple steps, you can add your Revolut card to Google or Apple Pay and make quick contactless payments. The process is fast, secure, and convenient.
Adding your Revolut card to Google Pay
- Open the Revolut app and go to the Cards tab.
- Tap on your virtual card.
- Tap Add to Google Pay.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to add your virtual card to Google Pay.
- Accept the Terms of Service.
- Set up authentication via PIN code or biometrics like fingerprint or face recognition.
Once added, you can simply hold your phone near a compatible payment terminal to pay via Google Pay.
Conclusion
Using a Revolut virtual card offers numerous benefits that make online shopping and transactions more convenient and secure.
With the ability to easily get a virtual card, manage it directly through the app, and use it for hassle-free online payments, Revolut virtual cards provide a smooth experience.
This guide has covered the key steps for getting set up with a Revolut card, using it for purchases online and in apps, and enabling contactless payments through Google or Apple Pay. We’ve also answered some common questions about using Revolut virtual cards.
Overall, Revolut virtual cards add an extra layer of security and control over your spending compared to physical cards.
If you do a lot of online shopping or travel frequently, using a Revolut card is highly recommended. The quick setup process and intuitive mobile app make it easy to get started.
Revolut hits the sweet spot between features, convenience, and ease of use when it comes to virtual payments.
FAQ
Can you tap with Revolut virtual cards?
Yes, you can use your Revolut virtual cards for contactless payments by adding them to a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Once added, you can tap your phone or smartwatch just like a physical card at contactless terminals.
How do I pay with Revolut contactless?
To pay contactless with Revolut, add your Revolut virtual card to Apple Pay or Google Pay. At checkout, hold your phone near the contactless terminal to pay.
Authenticate with Face ID or fingerprint when prompted. No need to tap in a PIN or sign receipts for purchases under $100.
Can I use my Revolut virtual card at an ATM?
No, you cannot withdraw cash from an ATM with a Revolut virtual card since it does not have a physical chip. To withdraw cash, you’ll need to use your physical Revolut card at an ATM. These cards can only be used for online purchases and contactless payments via mobile wallet.
How can I prevent abuse of my Revolut virtual card?
You can prevent abuse of your Revolut card by keeping your card details secure and not sharing them with unauthorized individuals.
Additionally, you can freeze or unfreeze your virtual card instantly through the app if you suspect any fraudulent activity.
Revolut’s advanced security features and real-time transaction notifications also help in detecting and preventing any unauthorised use of your virtual card.
How do I pay with Revolut on my phone?
To pay with a virtual Revolut card using your phone, first add it to your phone’s digital wallet (Apple Pay for iPhones, Google Pay for Androids).
Then when checking out, select your digital wallet as the payment method and authenticate with Face ID or fingerprint. Your Revolut card will be charged.
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